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Skills first, flexibility later

08 Mar 2016

A decade ago I was looking for a part-time job. That was a deal breaker for me, it was hugely important, but I couldn’t find anything. It was this absence in the job market that drove me to start up the business I co-founded, which is now Timewise Jobs.

No one feels more strongly about this issue than me. We need a better, fairer jobs market for people who want to work part time or flexibly. The numbers are depressing. If you are looking for a quality role that advertises some flexible or part time options, then you are looking at only 6% of the vacancy market. Yes. 6%.

Talk up your skills. Get noticed.

As an employer myself, I want the best person for the job, the one who has the best skills, the most passion, who will help me grow my business or deliver on my targets.

The market out there is tough. It is even tougher for candidates looking for part time or flexible work.

Your job application needs to be the best it can be and stand out from the crowd. If you are applying for a job advertised as open to flexibility then there is no need to explain your personal reasons for wanting a part time or flexible arrangement. Employers only want to know about your skills. You are applying for a job, the process is no different if it is a full time, part time or flexible role.

Things to consider when applying for a role

Think about why you are going for that job. Before hitting the ‘Send’ key, take another look at your cover letter; does it answer the following:

Why you are the right candidate for that job

What unique skills you can bring to that organisation

What skills do you want to acquire in that role

The great news, however, is that there is a growing market for businesses who are open to flexibility at the point of hire. It is young and it is small, but I’m very proud that Timewise Jobs is leading the way in this market.

But, as candidates we have to do our bit too and lead on the talent and skills that we bring, not the flexibility that we want.